1997-07-19: DE Havilland DHC-2 — Alagnak River, AK

Casualties unknown • Alagnak River, AK, US

Probable cause

A partial loss of engine power for an undetermined reason, and the pilot's intentional operation of the airplane with known deficiencies.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot was making a no-wind takeoff downstream from a 4,000-foot slow flowing river. The takeoff water run for the conditions was calculated at 1,300 feet. The pilot and passenger both reported a partial loss of engine RPM just prior to lift-off from the water. According to the pilot, there was insufficient stopping distance before reaching a river bank. The pilot rotated the airplane off the water below flying speed, cleared the bank, and settled back into the tundra. The pilot stated that a similar loss of engine RPM had happened before, but was considered transient.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-07-19 DE Havilland DHC-2 accident near Alagnak River, AK?

The pilot was making a no-wind takeoff downstream from a 4,000-foot slow flowing river. The takeoff water run for the conditions was calculated at 1,300 feet. The pilot and passenger both reported a partial loss of engine RPM just prior to lift-off from the water. According to the pilot, there was insufficient…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-07-19 involved a DE Havilland DHC-2, registration N68084, at Alagnak River, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A partial loss of engine power for an undetermined reason, and the pilot's intentional operation of the airplane with known deficiencies.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08279. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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